PS 3531 
.E295 S6 
1921 



:a:Son^ of Faith 



KATHERINE MILNER PEIRCE 





Class ZES^5^i_ 



10 



172. 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSHi 



A Song of Faith 



BY 



KATHERINE MILNER PEIRCE 




BOSTON 

THE STRATFORD CO.. Publishers 
1921 









Copyright 1921 

The STRATFORD CO., Publishers 

Boston, Mass. 



The Alpine Press, Boston, Mass., U. S. A. 

JULiS'ZI 

(g)Cl.A617742 



r^ 



In Memory of 
To Whose Inspiration this Book is Due 



CONTENTS 

PAGE 

Part I . 3 

Speak, Lord; for thy Servant Heareth 

Part II 23 

Before the Walls of Ur 

Part III 43 

The Legend of the Beautiful 

Part IV 63 

Conquests of Faith 

Part V 79 

Consummation 



PART I 

Speak, Lord; for thy Servant Heareth. 

Write the vision, and make it plain upon 
tablets, that he may run that readeth it. For 
the vision is yet for the appointed time, and it 
hasteth toward the end, and shall not lie; 
Though it tarry, wait for it; because it will 
surely come, it will not delay. 

Habakkuk. 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Unsculptured stones in simple fashion blent, 
Beside Machpelah 's cave an altar stood, 
And thwart the evening sky's effulgent gold. 
Pale filmy mists of perfumed incense rose 
From mingled spices in the censer there. 

The patriarch of Hebron's plenteous vale, 
The friend of God, the righteous Abraham, 
With reverent grace the priestly service 

wrought, ■ — 
Out-spread the spicy symbols of his trust, — 
Uplifted hands in attitude of praise, 
And plead in prayer Jehovah's sacred voice. 
To lead his soul from truth to blessed truth. 

A grace supreme had touched the saintly man, 
His sinewy frame was wasted by the years, 
And silver streaked the heavy ebon tress; 
Yet on his brow the mystic touch of faith 
Had left the traces of its subtle art 
In noble contour and the softened glow 
Of brow illumined with the light divine 
Of noble purpose, and its hope achieved. 

[3] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Beside him knelt in worship's calm intent, 
The child of promise, Sarah's gentle son; 
And from his lips the vesper anthem fell. 
In unison with that high mood of love 
That moved his father's heart to praise and 
prayer. 

What miracle of mind was witnessed there, 
When silence fell succeeding murmured prayer! 
Their souls serene and free from every care. 
Awaited some unfolding of the Will, 
Whose tender purpose led their sentient minds 
Amid the treasured store-house of His love. 

The incense burned to ashes soft, and lay 
A flutter in the censer's simple cup; 
While twilight drew the purple curtains down 
To veil the luster of the glowing west. 

Then on the mind of Abraham was poured 
A vision wrought of pearly beams of light. 
And in its midst, unfolding like a scroll, 
By priests within some cloistered chamber kept, — 
The promptings of the past. Those holy hours 
When trysts with God up-held his drooping soul, 

[4] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

He saw the years unfold their passing scenes, 
And knew the blessed treasure each had brought 
For strong up-building of his inmost soul; 
What hours of prayer had given his spirit sight, 
To see Jehovah 's word triumphant over all — 
What hours of service wrought the sacred word 
In deathless form of character and deed' — 
What hours of trust, with patient heart serene, 
He 'waited God's fulfillment of design. 
So life grew strong by simple formless creed, — 
Grew substance of the glory all sublime 
His living hope had traced. 

From Chaldee's plains to Hebron's fruitful 
hills, 
The way was long, the years retreating slow ; 
Yet all the path was smoothed by grace divine. 
And every day the careful duty done 
Formed in his life a strength of wondrous power. 
As some great pillar 'neath the architrave, 
Slow growing by the builder's cunning hand 
Upholds the dome of lofty symmetry, — 
So faith triumphant in its golden deeds 
Sustained the arches of his cloistered mind. 
He saw the soul that prays for guidance. 
In hours of need, finds alway fit reply — 

[5] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

For every reverent quest, God 's Fatherhood 
Stoops down to bless with utmost gift of love. 

Long, long he conned the subtle truth revealed ! 
The human spirit growing strong in power 
By constant musing on the source divine 
Of all that is, or ever is to be. 
Here in the hour of worship, well he knew 
This inner secret of his life 's success — 
This deathless token of his trust — 
Was vitalized and blest. 

Then as he read this grace of inner life, 
He, too, remembered God had promise given 
Of its eternal permanence in souls unborn, — 
That men should trace their lineage from him 
And keep the treasure pure. 'Twas then 
He knew the living conquest of his hope 
Was Isaac's gentle soul. 

And seeing this 
He praj^ed for clearer sight to pierce 
The mystic veil and wrest from life 
The secret of its sweetest mj^stery; 
His Isaac 's love, and that pure maiden heart 
Awaiting somewhere in the realm of time 

[6] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

To keep this sacred trust, this living faith 
Unsullied from the taint of unbelief. 

There as they knelt in attitude of prayer, 
On Abraham the heavenly spirit pressed, 
Until he saw with soul 's prophetic sight, 
The answer to his anxious heart 's request. 
And lo ! Jehovah's voice like evening's breeze 
That croons the flowers upon the hills to sleep, 
In accents soft; 

''My child of faith, 
I give thee this to know, in token 
Of the promise once we sealed 
With sacrifice and fire. 
In token of the hour when all the stars 
Bore witness to the unborn multitudes 
Who yet shall keep thy faith in Me secure. 
For this I fold the veil of being back 
And show My sacred purpose quite complete. ' ' 

The tossing waves of vision rose and fell. 
As vanished years flowed into future years. 
And dimly passed the mighty sires and sons 
Of Israel's dawn. Heroic souls, 
Who guarding still the spirit's sacred trust. 
Amid opposing nations, — saw the dream 

[7] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Of grander statehood in the hearts of men 
Who knew Jehovah 's Word and keep the Faith. 

But oft, alas, the paling mists of doubt, 
A veil of darkness o 'er the nation threw ; 
Yet midst the gloom, prophetic heroes rose 
With moral courage to proclaim the truth, — 
To hurl the idols from the house of Baal, 
And baser idols from the hearts of men. 

Then to his gaze was lent a holier sight, 
A trail of glory spread across the gloom, • — 
Angelic hosts on silent pinions bright 
Bore thence a symbol of celestial bloom. 
A mystic flower with trailing tendrils dight. 
Whose snowy crown was bathed in purple light. 

Upon the hand of Abraham it lay. 
With clinging tendrils round his fingers twined, 
Its silver petals vibrant with the ray 
Of golden light its mystic heart enshrined. 
And while he gazed its subtle beauty spread 
And radiant glory round about him shed. 

Then Abraham the symbol beauteous knew 
To be a portent of the sacred Life 

[8] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Sometime to rise among the busy throng 
And spend its glory for the souls of men, — 
To bless with peace the trouble-wearied minds, — 
To breathe the incense of a heavenly grace, — 
To lift the lives of men to higher plains 
Of faith made perfect in Jehovah's love. 

And then alas ! a barren hill disclosed 
Its rugged slopes amid the shifting scenes. 
Whereon a mocking host in tumult surged 
Around a cross whose tortuous beams sustained 
The bleeding body of the gentle One 
Whose days of love made fair the flower of life. 

heavenly Love so vanquished, so reviled ! 
What boon can recompense for sacrifice 
So terrible and complete? 
Is this the end of faith's prophetic dream? 
The end of trusting hope ? 

The gloom of night drew down, the deeper 
dark, 
When heavy clouds obscure the constant stars, 
And all was still. E 'en Abraham forebore 
The plaint of anguish that oppressed his soul. 

'Twas grace divine that blest the offering 
[9] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Upon the hill slope by Machpelah's cave, 

And while the vision faded with the glow 

Of crimson paling in the glowing west, 

And Hebron's forest turned to somber gray, — 

Still Abraham beside the altar bowed 

O'ercome with pain and awe. 

And while he mused in silence all inert. 

Unto his soul a Voice impelling spake, 

And this the portent of its blessed word ; 

' ' Nay, do not grieve, my child, 
My will is boundless in its power to bless 
The deep revealing of My law of life ; 
The triumph of thy strong, abiding faith. 
My love incarnate in the stainless Son, 
Oh faithful one, are tokens of thy quest ; 
Bear in thy mind with reverent love and 

praise, — 
My grace hath placed its seal upon thy prayer, 
My benediction on thy heart's desire. 
In perfect peace go hence and do thy will." 

The patriarch rose and from the altar turned, 
A smile upon his lips, his failing eyes 
Bright with the joy that filled his trusting heart ; 
So moved by grace, his aged and trembling hand 

[10] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

With light caress on Isaac's shoulder laid, 
The while he said ; 

' ' My son, our gift was good, and love divine 
Hath granted more than I in meekness sought. 
Jehovah's name be praised! Henceforth where 

faith abides, 
May scenes like this His perfect Will reveal. 
Content thee now and let us seek our tent. 
So dimly seen by Mamre 's silver pool. 
Behold the paschal moon from Jordan's hills 
Rises in splendor on the misty night. 
And pours her opalescent glow 
Upon the landscape, sweet with virgin spring. 
See how those beams enfold Machpelah's cave. 
As though the loved one in the realm of song 
Had wrought yon halo in the land of death 
To bless us with her peace and sweet content. 
My well-beloved, my son of Sarah born. 
Thy will to serve, thy youthful strength I crave, 
To guide my frail and age betraying steps 
Adown the rugged steeps of Hebron's hill." 

' ' Yea, Father, as thou wilt, ' ' the son replied. 
So Isaac led with step serene and slow. 
Along the forest path. Softly they moved. 
Their hearts in unison with evening's peace, 

["] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

The stars of faith and love serenely glowed 

Within their soul's exalted firmament, 

Whose zenith touched Jehovah's courts of peace. 

Together blent in grace of rythmic tread, 

Step timed to step and forms in concord 

swayed, — 
The pilgrims softly sought the dewy glade 
And sheltering tent by Mamre's silver pool. 

Here paused they, lifting solemn gaze 
To mark the moonbeams guild the verdant hill. 
And Sarah 's tomb upon the distant heights. 
Then Abraham in quiet accents spake ; 

' ' My son, thou knowest sorrow 's secret pain 
That stills the lifeblood when the sacred bond 
Of fond affection severs 'neath the touch 
Of death 's compelling hand. Thou knowest, too, 
How long the dreary void 
Of loving glance and tender presence calls 
To those mute chords within thy breast, — 
How long thine ear inclines to hear the voice 
Whose tender accents, like the breath of mom, 
Awoke thy soul to bloom with filial love. 
Ah ! thou wast doubly blest, thy mother 's grace 
Waxed stronger in the years that swiftly sped 

[12] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Ere came the boon of little baby hands 
To grasp the favor of her bounteous care ; 
So rich her love, it circled thy young life 
With every boon thy gentle nature craved." 

' ' Her failing hands wove fabrics soft and fine 
To drape thy comely form. But most 
She cared to trace the fancies of thy mind 
And lead thy thoughts along the way of truth, — 
Taught thee the strength concealed in living 

faith, 
Moulded the purpose of thy youthful life, 
In noble action everywhere inspired 
By thought intent to keep Jehovah 's sacred law. ' ' 

' ' Her deepest joy she sang in thankful praise. 
For nobler promise of the years to come, 
When thou shouldst foster God's eternal word, 
And in such service bless all living men. 
For this her heart with gladness over-flowed, 
And in her heart the light prophetic grew 
Of that far time when all the world should know 
The peace and sweetness of thy quiet soul. . . " 

"It is enough. 
The time has fully come, 
When I would know God's will concerning thee, 

[13] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

And so today we sought Machpelah's cave, 
And b}^ my Sarah 's tomb the altar reared, 
To offer mcense to our guiding Lord." 

' ' His word is good, 
And all the future lay 
Revealed in glory to my anxious eyes , 
The while His voice commanded me arise 
And make provision for thy trusting heart. 
Come, let us seek the shelter of the tent 
And Eliezer call to meet us there." 

Then Isaac drew the drooping tent-folds back 
And let the silver glory shed its radiance 
On the simple couch of ease 
Within the patriarch's home. The still retreat, 
Where wealth of heart prevailed. 
Triumphant over dross of store and gold. 
He drew the divan with its spread of fleece. 
Within the circle of the mellow light. 
And for refreshment brought the jar of milk 
And w^heaten loaf from out the hidden store. 
With gentle word he took the father's staff, 
Unloosed the sandals and refreshed the feet 
With cooling water from the shimmering pool. 
And while he smoothed the ebon locks and beard, 

[■4] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

And spread the mantle o'er the weary form, 
Good Eliezer came and joined the twain. 

The salutation given, in silent prayer 
The patriarch bowed and Isaac murmured low 
The thanks for bread. 

Then Abraham spake softly ; 

''This is well. 
Thy service, Eliezer, I would ask. 
To fill my cup of blessing to the brim, 
Ere God shall call me hence to join 
My loved ones in the land of light. ' ' 

"Thou knowest how my hope of future years 
Entwines the life of this, my gentle son, 
And how the promise of the Holy One 
Must be fulfilled through his conforming deed. 
Then this I pray, before the blighting hour 
When death shall bring me home. 
Thou shalt bring thither from Chaldea 's clime, 
From kindred of my reverend father's house, 
A virgin daughter, whose endearing heart 
And grace of comradeship shall always bring. 
In times of sorrow and of joy alike 
The blessed comfort of abiding peace. ' ' 

[■5] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

''Mine eyes behold the maids of Canaan's 
pride, 
But vain their beauty, vain their heart's de- 
light,— 
Their idols all are wrought of worldly dross, 
The pride of conquest and the brave display 
Of gilded trappings. No desire have they. 
To turn the quiet thought to worth of soul 
And hope of future life. 

Nay, thou shalt seek Chaldea's verdant plains. 
And yon small remnant of my father 's house. 
Who cherish still the Spirit's boundless power. 
And hope for witness of its hidden truth 
In living deeds of men. 

There thou wilt find the maiden I would choose. 
God-fearing, faithful, wise and ever true ; 
Well worthy of the high behest, — to be 
The mother of a matchless race of men. 
And meet to dwell within my Sarah's tent. 
The wife of our beloved." 

''Yea, I will go," the steward made reply. 
Content to know thy God will guard the way ; 
But if the maiden ask for some delay, 
And begs for Isaac 's voice to plead his cause. 
What then shall be thy will? Shall I return 
And hither bring thy son? 

[i6] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

''Nay, nay," said Abraham in quick distress, 
''My son must bide by Mamre's silver pool 
And yield me still his care. ' ' 

Then musing 
While the silence fell between and soft 
The splash of water smote the ear. 
And soothing night-winds kissed the furrowed 

brow. 
Again his voice took up the broken thread 
Of discourse, and wistful, soft and low. 
As one who dreams repeats the thoughts 
That sweeps the chambers of his mind. 

' ' The maid will come. The word of God is good. 
My son, art thou content ? ' ' 

' ' Yea Father, God is good. His covenant 
Is sacred unto me, and this thy vision 
Glorified and blest by sacrifice and prayer 
Is sacrament and law. It grows within my will 
As 'tis in thine, — The purpose God has planned 
To keep His Word an ever living flame 
In minds and hearts of men. 
I cannot see so far adown the years as thou. 
Oh father mine, but quite content am I 

[17] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

To walk by wisdom of thy mind inspired, 
Content to know the maiden in Chaldea's land 
Will keep the law and by her lore of love 
Cherish and sustain our living faith." 

"True is thy thought, my son," the patriarch 
said, 
' * It comforts me with gentleness and worth ; 
God's blessing on thy life. And thou 
My friend, thou steward of my house, 
Take thou the best of all our goodly store, 
The gems of Egypt and the weaves of Tyre, 
With camels to the desert ways enured, 
And hasten thou to far Chaldea's land, — 
To Ur, the city of the sacred flame, 
There ask for Nahor, kindred of my sire. 
Oh haste thee and before the morning sun 
Again illumines Hebron's purple hills 
Be thou prepared to take the beaten way 
Toward the hills of dawn." 

''So let us pray; 

' ' Jehovah ! Lord ! Thy word is guide and stay, 
To souls af aint upon life 's weary road, 
We thank Thee for thy presence every day 
And for the favors Thou hast oft bestowed. 

[I8] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Grant Thy compassion and thy goodness prove, 
Let us but yield a pure and faithful heart; 
Grant us to know that wisdom, faith and love 
Of Thy great kingdom are the better part. 

So let us serve Thine own supreme behest. 
So blend our wills in Thy supreme delight, 
That blessings may attend our simple quest 
And love divine in mortal lives unite." 



[19] 



PART II 

Before the Walls of TJr. 

Rebekah came forth with her pitcher on her 
shoulder. 

Genesis. 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Chaldea's plains, enwrapped by summer noon, 
Gleamed far and near with harvest green and 

gold, 
The wide Euphrates rolling slow between. 
Shone silver in the sun's effulgent beam. 
A fleecy splendor wrought of cirrus clouds 
Rolled golden in the dome of azure blue, — 
And touched with topaz all the ripening fields, 
Or paled to amethystine mists of light 
Upon the distant hills of Elam 's range. 

A gem of pearl, the stately walls of Ur 
Adorned the plain. Her temples, homes. 
And busy marts of trade, arose 
In wondrous grandeur and the strength 
Of simple grace and peerless symmetry, — 
The architectural dream of kings. 
Who sought in nature's lavish grace. 
The plan and grand proportion for their art, 
And wrought it here upon Chaldea's plains 
In wood and brick and stone. 

A land of peerless beauty on that day. 
When Eliezer paused beside the spring, 

[23] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Palm shaded midst the plain. 

How long his caravan with even pace 

Had trod the desert waste, 

Barren of food and water's sparkling gleam! 

More pitiless the sun at noonday seemed, 

Since effort and the weary lapse of time 

Had wasted eager strength. 

And now when keen desire to conquer 

Time and space and hindering circumstance, 

Was dulled by purpose most complete, — 

The weary pilgrims gathered 'neath the palm 

And sought refreshment from the crystal pool. 

And sweet repose in midday's languid sleep. 

The camels knelt around the bubbling spring. 

The tired attendants rested by their side. 

Nor lifted voice in song or idle jest, — 

So deep the noontide peace. 

Beneath a palm apart, 
Stood Bliezer in a pensive mood. 
Lost in the calm of sweet pastoral scenes, 
And the fair city on the verdant plain. 

And while he mused. 
He seemed to live again that distant day. 
When God's commanding voice 
Called Abraham to leave familiar fields, 

[24] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

And go a pilgrim to the storied land 

That clasps the billows of the western sea. 

Then memory lived again the woeful day, 

When all the hosts of fierce Nakhunta came 

From Elam 's mountains on the purple east, 

To waste in wrath the Chaldee's household 

gods,— 
To lead, in chains, the priestly brotherhood, — 
From sacred fanes and sacred duties dear. 
To serve the altars of his hated shrines. 
The nobler faith in beneficent power, 
So richly poured from heavenly orbs of light. 
To bless the people and direct their gods, — 
This, too, Nakhunta crushed with ruthless hand. 
Till torn and bleeding lay the nation's heart. 

Ah day of woe ! Yet blest to Abraham, 
When from the broken clay and prostrate faith. 
He turned to seek, beyond the constant stars, — 
Beyond the moon and life invoking sun, 
The God supreme, the Holy One, whose power 
Hath formed the planets in the pathless blue, 
And fixed the laws of nature's fair domain. 
Thrice happy day! when he obeyed the Voice, 
And from the broken nation turned his feet 
To follow its behest. Prosperity and peace 
His steps had blessed. His life, 

[25] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Conforming to Jehovah's laws, 
Was rich in proven truth of virtue won, 
But if unwitting he had read awrong 
Jehovah's will, and so in trespass wrought, 
The bitter fruit of heart oppressing pain 
But proved the love of His restraining hand 
And led to dearer truth. 

So Eliezer read the law of faith ; 
Before the vision bowed his head 
With humble heart. With meekly folded palms, 
Murmured low in broken tones of prayer : 

"Oh, thou Almighty God! Jehovah, Lord, 
Friend of my master, faithful Abraham, 
I thank Thee for this vision of thy will 
I thank Thee, for Thy care along the way. 
And for Thy peace that keeps our hour of rest. 
In Thy good pleasure bless my duty here. 
And may Th}^ name be praised f orevermore. " 

Bleating of lambs and low of many kine. 
The cry of herdsmen mid the shifting throng, 
Confusion wrought beside the western gate 
Of Ur's gray circling wall. 

A crystal pool was there. 

[26] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Hence shepherds late had driven their thirsty 

flocks, 
And drew the limpid water from the well 
To sate their thirst. 

A cry of warning 'rose amid the strife, — 
The call of one who, looking toward the west, 
With shaded eyes against the setting sun, 
Beheld the approaching forms 
Of ten great camels laden with the spoil 
Of precious merchandise. The drivers 
Leading straight unto the gate. 

' ' Make way, make way, behold the caravan ! 
Some merchant prince from Egypt's verdant 

Nile 
Comes seeking traffic in the marts of Ur." 

The scurrying flocks and herds turned right 
and left. 
Some wandering back into the quiet fields. 
Still others waiting for the final draught 
Stood meekly by. So the proud camels came 
And paused beside the well. 

The herdsmen gathered round with curious 
gaze 
To greet the stately pilgrim of the west ; 

[27] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

To beg the legends of the storied land, 

And learn what treasure he was bringing hence 

To barter in the market stalls of Ur. 

But eager questions pressing to the lips 

With reverence stayed, when quick the kindling 

glance 
Met the calm light in Eliezer's eyes. 
No lordly merchant this with precious store 
Of spices, jewels or the fruit of looms 
To spend for shining gold. Yet his the glance 
To read the souls of men. With poise serene 
To bid each traveler stand, and by the sign 
Of manhood's honor and supreme resolve. 
Declare his worth before he speaks the word 
That tells his mission or reveals his need. 

Thus while the shepherds met the steward's 
test. 
And ere the word of salutation fell, 
A chime of silvery laughter filled the air, 
And from the gate a troupe of maidens came, 
Bearing the water jars of glazed clay, 
To fill with crystal treasure from the well. 
The mellow music of their laughter chimed 
To merry smile and merrier fleeting glance ; 
And pattering feet the dusty pavement prest 
So lightly with the subtle eloquence 

[28] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Of pure and blithesome happiness, 
That every fleeting posture spoke the grace 
Of glad hearts blest with youth and innocence, 
And touched with conscious pride of high re- 
solve. 

So fair the cluster of Chaldean girls, 
It seemed the sculptor's vision of delight. 
His bright and mystic dreams 
Of nature's fine perfection, were here at Ur, 
In pride of maidenhood, 
Made flesh to grace her streets. 

Yet one fair maiden, lovelier than the rest. 
Lent brightness to that happy sisterhood. 
Unconscious of her power to please and bless. 
She drew, by grace of tender gentleness, 
The fond affection of her little world. 
By arts of kindness, she most deftly wrought 
The silken chords of perfect courtesy. 
And held them comrades in the hours alike 
Of fleeting sorrow and abiding joy. 
So subtle was the charm her presence gave, 
'Twas hers to guide, not lead, the sportive 

mood, — 
To temper gladness with the deeper joy 
Of loving favor and the gracious thought, — 

[29] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

To bless a sister ere she sought to know 

The pleasure she might grasp with eager hand. 

She was no fairer than her comrades fair, 
Her robe no richer in its art and weave, 
Nor were her jewels wrought of costlier gems, — • 
Yet some fair grace of beauty and of pride, — 
Some trace of thought that ruled her gentle will. 
Like twilight on the dewy hills of dawn, 
Hlum'ed her face, informed her changing mood, 
And marked her fairer than the fairest there. 

'Twas thus Rebekah came among the throng. 
She leaned her jar upon the dripping curb. 
Gazing the while on Eliezer's face, — 
The smile upon her lips, but in her eyes 
The look of one who sees in morning light. 
The semblance of some half-forgotten dream. 
And bids shy memory in haste to weave 
The broken strands that bound the vision bright, 
And show its incidents in one harmonious whole. 

When Eliezer saAv the fair young face. 
Beheld the mist of floating raven hair. 
The tinted ivory of the broad, high brow, 
Traced with the blue of netted veins, — 
Saw, too, the flush of maiden modesty 

[30] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

'erspreading all, — ^he marked with joy 

The clear and earnest gaze of calm gray eyes,— 

'Twas then his soul was raised in silent prayer : 

''Jehovah, if it be Thy will, this be the maid 
I came to win for gentle Isaac's love, 
Gtant now Thy favor in my earnest quest." 

Then to the maid entreatingly : 

''My child, I pray thee, one refreshing drink, 
From thy cool pitcher, I bespeak. 
To wash the desert dust from lips and throat." 

"Yea, drink, my lord," she spake most gra- 
ciously. 
And from the fountain drew the dripping jar, 
Poised it upon her hand with youthful grace. 
While Eliezer drank the cooling wave. 

His thirst allayed. 
The steward spake his thanks 
For gift so graciously bestowed. 
The maiden smiled and quickly made reply : 
"Let me, I pray thee, for thy camels draw, 
'Tis happy boon indeed." 

And then with haste 
She filled again and once again the troughs. 
Until the camels rested satisfied. 

[31] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Right glad of heart to note her worthiness, 
And thankful for this token of his quest, 
The steward smiling asked: 

''Fair child, I pray whose daughter mayst 
thou be? 
And hast thy father's house the room to lodge 
My comrades and myself ? Hast straw and grain 
To feed my camels that have fasted long?" 

' * Good sir, ' ' the maiden said in mild reply, 
*'I am Rebekah, child of Bethuel, 
The son of Milcah, wife of Nahor's heart. 
My father's house hath goodly store of peace 
And plenteous provender for thee and thine. 
I'll hasten hence to tell my noble sire." 

Then Eliezer, drawing from his treasure store 
Bracelets and earrings wrought of burnished 

gold, 
And rich gems with the cunning artifice 
Of Egypt's studied craft, in kindness said : 
''Take these, good maid, these golden orna- 
ments, 
And give thy father salutation, peace. 
In name of my good master, Abraham, 
Who is thy father's kinsman. Hither sent 
Am I upon a mission to thy sire." 

[32] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Eefreshed and glad of heart for quest so blest, 
The steward led his caravan within the city 

walls, 
But ere he left the gateway far behind, 
Young Laban came, the son of Bethuel, 
And for his sister's sake a welcome gave, 
And proffered guidance to his father's house. 
Then Eliezer bowed acknowledgment 
For kindly gift of friendly word and deed. 
And begged his host point out the homeward 

way. 

So Laban led along the narrow streets, 
Past humble homes and palaces of pride 
Wrought in Chaldea's clay. The plastic walls 
'erspread with myriad hues the painter 's arts 

devise. 
Slowly they passed the palace of the kings, 
And marked the splendor of its stately form, — 
The rich adornment of the sculptor's craft. 
Noted the high fagade with curious carvings 

traced, 
And porticos ornate with strange device 
Of winged bulls and gods, half man, half beast. 
There, too, the white of alabaster gleamed 
Fretted with many a curious cuneiform 
To laud the deeds of Shumir's mighty kings. 

[33] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

More slowly paced they past the spacious 
court 
Of Ur's fair temple sacred to the moon, 
And marveled at the architectural pride 
Of massive masonry in terrace piled, 
And crowned with clustered colonnades. 
So high it rose above the palaces, — 
So stately towered in glow of evening sky, — 
It seemed the serving priests might cross the 

vaulted blue, 
And from the silver crescent bring the light 
To bless the hearts of simple votaries. 

But past these triumphs of the builder's art, 
Good Eliezer moved with heart serene and still. 
No pomp of beauty 'woke to conscious pride 
The sense of reverence for the outward form; 
Nor did the fane adorned with simple grace. 
Invoke his soul to worship and adore 
The orb of light. 

So when the gold and crimson after-glow 
Gave place to twilight's silvery mist. 
He stood serene beside the portico 
That marked the entrance to the spacious hall 
Where Bethuel abode with all his house. 

And lo ! the master came, 

[34] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Saying with oriental charm of speech : 

''Thou blessed of the Lord, come in and rest; 
Within the hall the bounteous feast is spread, 
Come in, I pray thee, and my joy fulfill." 

Then Eliezer bowing low replied: 
''Jehovah's peace be unto thee and thine! 
'Tis in His name I take thy proffered gift, 
And tarry with thee in my hour of need." 

Then through the portals to the inner court 
Young Laban led the camels, and his men 
Made haste the heavy burdens to remove, 
And place for their refreshment, grain and 

grass 
Fresh gathered from Chaldea's sunny plains. 
Still others drew from out the cistern's depth 
Cool water for the weary traveler's feet, — 
Removed the dust of travel and the pain 
Of burning sun and blasting desert winds ; — 
Their forms anointed with the healing balm 
And soothing lotions mixed by Micah's hands. 

The guests, fresh robed in linen, soft and cool, 
Were led into the cheerful banquet room, 
Where viands dressed with rare and cunning art 
'erspread the tables with a lavishness 

[35] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

That told the tender care and generous heart 
Of one who loved her household and gave heed 
To every want of restful comfort there. 

When Eliezer saw the bounteous feast, 
Its subtle art of hospitality, 
And met the kindling glance of host and friend. 
His heart was touched with sense of brother- 
hood, 
And putting by the brimming cup of peace. 
Stood forth and said : 
''These tokens of thy love bid me to stay 
My want of nourishment 'till I 
Unfold the secret of my quest." 

All eyes were turned toward the gentle face 
With wondering glance, but Bethuel said : 
''Speak on." 

The steward bowed : 

"Jehovah's name be praised. 
His faithful friend, thy kinsman, Abraham, 
Calls me his servant. There 
In Hebron's vale, whence turned his pilgrimage, 
Jehovah's law he keeps. His altars serve. 
And there Jehovah guards his passing days 
With His exalted love and blesses him 

[36] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

With wealth of many flocks and herds. 
Unnumbered are the lambs his shepherds tend, — 
Unnumbered, too, the herds at Hebron's pool, 
While many asses crop the springing grass 
On Eschol's verdant plain. 
These camels ten, within thy inner court, 
Are but the choicest of a splendid herd 
That carry merchandise to Egypt's marts 
From rich bazaars 'neath old Damascus' walls. 
In coins of Egypt and of Canaan's pride, 
His gold and silver is a plenteous store. 
And serving men of brave and stalwart form, 
And maidens, capable in household arts. 
Enlarge the wealth of righteous Abraham." 

"But more than these, his soul and form of 
man 
He guards with reverent care. 
Well knowing, life is gift of God Most High, 
And to be treasured more than wealth of earth. 
'Tis thus he moves to deeds by faith sublime. 
And life is builded on Jehovah's Word 
In acts of virtue and unselfishness. 
Thus doth he lay foundations strong and deep 
To build a nation in the hearts of men 
Who love mankind for sonship to his God. 

[37] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

''Jehovah's voice has sealed the solemn pledge 
Of future glory for the patriarch's seed, 
And in the tent by Hebron's crystal pool 
Abides the seal of that blest covenant, — 
The gentle Isaac, son and heir 
Of Abraham's estate. Not of his wealth alone, 
But of the noble treasure of his soul 
And deathless love of Sarah's mother-heart. 

''At manhood's prime his years are now ar- 
rived. 
And for his grace, his saintly sire would seek 
A fitting comrade for the future years, — 
A wife who holds her gift of womanhood 
A sacred trust from great Jehovah's hand 
To mould the embryo of a race 
In plastic hearts of youth. 
For this I came to fair Chaldea's plains, 
Sent hither by my master Abraham, 
To seek in Nahor's house the favored bride. 

"I, doubting much the favor of my quest. 
Came but this evening to your city gate, 
And lifting humble heart in prayer. 
Besought the Lord to grant the meek request 
And show the purpose of His great design. 

[38] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Scarce had my mind the mild petition asked, 
When from the gate thy child, Rebekah, came. 
Heard my request for water and in kindness 

pledged 
The food and shelter of her father's house. 
And when she claimed the lineage 
Of Nahor, brother of my righteous lord, 
I bowed my head and knew Jehovah spake. 

"So if my errand seemeth good to thee, 
I pray thee grant thy favor ere I break 
The bread or drain the cup of cheer ; 
If not, then let me turn and seek 
My master in his distant tent." 

Then Bethuel and Laban made reply : 
'' 'Tis not for us to know, when great Jehovah 

speaks. 
So let His will be done. 
Take thou Rebekah to thy master's son. 
And to thy soul be peace." 

Then Eliezer bowed his saintly head. 
And prayed Jehovah's blessing on the feast. 

[39] 



PART III 

The Legend of the Beautiful 

Ilea, the supreme god, the king of the universe, 
who alone can violate the laws which he has im- 
posed upon creation, determined to recall her 
(Isther) and to grant her boon, for which she 
had descended into the realms of Allat, — the 
water of life, that would restore Tarn muz to life. 

Chaldean Legend, 



A SONG OF FAITH 

The morning glow threw transient mists of 
rose 
Across the ethereal whiteness of the sky, 
And grew to gold upon the crested hills 
Of Elam's guardian range. 
Anon the pulsing waves of light, 
Rolled surge on surge through all the star pierced 

dome ; — 
Brightened and swept the portals of the west 
With trailing mists of blue, 

Then glowed transparent in the heavenly height. 
Far, far beyond the paling planet's blaze, — 
Until the sense of space illimitable 
Invoked the soul to reverence. 

Upon the housetop Eliezer knelt in prayer. 
Unheeding that great miracle of dawn. 
Unheeding too, the sounds of waking life 
That rose and fell, pulsating like the light; 
The low of kine, the bleat of hungry sheep. 
The roar of traffic and the clearer tones 
Of human voices speaking in the street; 

[43] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Unheeding too, the wierd and solemn chant 
Of myriad voices raised in unison 
To strange discordant music of the harp, 
The taboret, the cymbal and the drum, — 
Weird melody of temple service wrought 
To call the devotees of Hea and the Moon 
To morning sacrifice. 

Unheeding all, good Eliezer knelt. 
With folded palms and lifted eager mind 
Toward the source of thought and light and life — 
The Spirit, — Soul of all the universe. 

Intent to learn 
Jehovah's will. His ever blest command, 
He touched the mystic source of thought. 
And felt his human will transformed 
With purpose not his own. 
A miracle it grew within his soul, 
As though the pulseless clay. 
Pierced with a ray of spirit animate. 
Arose to conquer time and fate. 
By this he knew the sign of heavenly Will, 
The mild behest he hungered to obey. 
And glad of heart, he sought his kindly host 
And prayed him speed his journey to the west. 

[44] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Quickly he sought the inner court 
Where Bethuel with all his household stood 
To greet the guest returned from morning 

prayer. 
The salutation and the blessing said, 
The steward spake this word of anxious care : 
' ' The Lord is good. He blest my mission here 
With precious gift beyond my highest hope. 
This morn I read His message true and clear, 
And fain would now obey His mild behest, — 
So give, I pray, this maiden of my quest, 
And speed my journey to my master's house." 

'^Not so," said Laban, son of Bethuel, 
^'0 hasten not nor murmur to be gone! 
Our guest thou art, and welcome to our house, — 
Then stay and rest until thou be refreshed 
Of thy long journey from the storied land." 

And Mariam pled, her mother-love intent 
To keep its idol yet a little while; 
''Oh hasten not, or if it be thy will 
Then let the maiden tarry, I beseech. 
She is o'er young to leave her mother's care, — 
A year she needs to grow in woman's grace 
And learn the arts of sweet domestic peace, — 

[45] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

To fashion with her own industrious hand 
The bridal g^arments and to weave, perchance, 
The store of cloth to meet the family need," 

''Entreat me not," then Eliezer said, 
''The Lord commands and fain would I obey; 
And lo! my master, Abraham, awaits. 
With patient faith, but eager, longing eyes. 
The happy eve that marks our safe return. 
And Isaac, also wearies for the voice 
And gentle presence of this gentle maid. 
So pray you, grant my anxious heart's request 
And let us go in peace." 

Then questioned they Rebekah; "Wilt thou go, 
Upon this journey to the distant land ? 
Wilt thou acknowledge this Jehovah, God, 
Whom Abraham doth worship and believe?" 

' ' Yea, I will go, ' ' Rebekah, smiling said, 
"His purpose I perceive, for like 
The drapery erstwhile hung between 
The carved casements of my window's frame, — 
And now removed that I may plainly see 
The landscape with a clear unhindered view, — 
So Eliezer 's story clears the doubt 

[46] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

From heart and mind and inmost sense of soul, 
'Till I behold the future fraught with peace 
And hear Jehovah 's voice in this that calls. ' ' 

The lengthening shadows marked the day's 

decline, 
When westward from the massive gates of Ur, 
A half day's journey, paused the caravan 
Amid a grove where gleamed a crystal pool. 

And fair the scene, 
As 'mid the palms and clustered groves of fig, 
The camels moved, each bravely decked 
With trappings wrought of Egypt's cunning 

looms ; 
And saddles rich with curious designs 
In burnished gold and silver filigree 
Of rare Damascus art. 

The camel drivers led the caravan 
With song and merry jest. 
Their bright fantastic garb of many hues 
Ornate with threads of quaint embroidery, 
And bright with jewels of a rude design. 
Talisman and charm of curious power 
Clamored soft music to destroy the spell 
Of spirits evil. 

[47] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

But all this bright array ne 'er lured the sense 
From greater charms of fairer beauty there ; 
Rebekah's maidens, brightest girls of Ur, 
In festive dress of oriental dyes 
And lavish gleam of gems, — 
Around their mistress wove the blithesome spell 
Of youth and beauty in glad innocence. 
But Bethuel 's daughter rode amid her maids, 
The peerless flower of Chaldee's womanhood, — 
Whose beauty unadorned was fairer still. 

In merry mood they paused beside the spring, 
The camels slowly kneeling at command, 
The riders hastening to dismount 
And seek refreshment from the placid pool. 
Good Eliezer paced the grassy path, 
His lips atuned with reverent thankfulness 
For flowing water's sweet refreshing boon. 
Rebekah came and calmly stood beside. 
The while her maidens laughing gathered round 
And offered water in the drinking cups 
Or fruits of Chaldee tendered with the hand. 
Still others quickly spread the bounteous feast, 
And bade their mistress and her guardian 
Hasten to partake the cup of cheer. 
But e'er she brake the small unleaven loaf, 

[48] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Eebekah turned with wistful, tender gaze, 
Toward the purple shadows of the east, 
Where like a gem of orient splendor bright, 
The towers of Ur caught up day 's fading beam 
And waved it back with many a shimmer of 

delight 
Across the verdant plain. 

Observing this, Rebekah, smiling said; 
' ' Behold my native city wafts to me. 
Across the leagues of Chaldea's fruitful fields, 
A bright farewell and pledge of destiny. 
It is the secret of her mystic name. 
So long revered by those who love her well. . . 
A talisman of yon bright Sacred Flame 
That guards the happy children of the plain. ' ' 

' ' Auspicious too, the face of yonder moon 
Pale glowing on the far horizon's bar. 
Full orbed and beauteous. The silver stars 
Are ranged in order fair to guard my steps. 
See ! there the lamp of Isthar lights the west 
To bless my eyes with light of love supreme ; 
Ah, happly now I leave her votive shrine, 
And seek henceforth the perfect law of truth 
Beyond the portals of the setting sun." 

[49] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

' ' Good Eliezer, pray, look not so grave, 
The truth, I know, is veiled in mystic deeps, 
But 'tis the fancy of the youthful mind 
That reads the portents in these heavenly signs. 
Albeit wise men of Chaldea's schools 
Have thought it well to read their purpose so. 
Nay, well I know that He who guides those worlds 
Upon their shining pathway day by day. 
Doth guard us with His boundless love more vast 
Than human hearts can know or understand. 
So while I stand in mute and humble awe. 
Before the works of His creative hand, 
My happy mind goes forth in sportive mood 
To wander 'mid the marvels of the sky, 
Interpreting in language all its own 
The deathless song of His infinitudes." 

' ' Thou knowest, Eliezer, all that pleasant lore. 
The Chaldea mystics write of Isther's love, — 
The love of woman passing sweet and fair 
That holds the threads of life. 
And stills the passions of our vaunting pride ? 
Thou knowest not ? Then harken well my friend 
While we partake this festal cup of cheer. 
And evening draws her purple curtains down. ' ' 

[50] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

' ' In Hea 's bright abode, beyond the sun, 
The powerful gods assemble to adore 
The great creative One. 
Yea, in his court, attendant on his word. 
Those shining ones extol his power in song, 
Or hasten to the utmost realms of light 
To do his will among the hosts of life. 
Among that throng who serve his high behest, 
Two gracious ones attend his every wish, 
Tammuz, the beautiful, the Isthar, queen of 
love." 

' ' Eliezer ! could thine eyes have seen 
The strength and splendor of that mighty one, 
Thy heart had been rejoiced. 
So great he was in you high pantheon 
Where dwell great Ilea's sons. 
They named him Beautiful, nor yet 
Had words the power to trace the charm 
Of Tammuz' lordly worth. 
While Isthar bound in meshes of her love 
All hearts of flesh, Tammuz, with joy 
Beamed light and warmth abroad. 
And with the subtle magic of his touch 
Awoke to life the sleeping forms of earth. ' ' 

[51] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

''But Tammuz knew his gift of wondrous 
power 
Was worthless without Isthar's boon of love — 
Was lifeless to, without the instinct sweet 
Of mutual dependence and the trust 
Of perfect understanding and its grace. 
And so he turned to Isthar and besought 
That she reveal the secret of her charm 
And grant to him the magic of her gift. 
But Isthar must deny the strange request, 
For this, her power, was gift of Hea's will 
And not her own to give. ' ' 

''Then Tammuz' wonder grew, and as he 
sought 
Her gentle ministrations to unite 
The severed units of his mighty sphere, 
He learned of Isthar's grace and queenliness 
And valued more the goddess than her gift. 
Yea, in her heart of being Avas a charm 
That made her more than love. 
Isthar is woman, though a goddess born, 
And every grace of loveliness and charm 
That makes our mortal womanhood adored. 
Is in her life exhalted and enhanced. 
For wisdom sways her noble mind 

[52] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

And gladness rules the promptings of her heart. 
Her sweet enchantment rests on Hea's world, 
With wonderous witchery of glad delight ; 
Much as the perfume of the golden rose 
Pervades the smiling garden's dewey air — 
So has she spread a gossamer of love 
About the anguish of our mortal life — 
Has placed her silver lamp in evening's blue 
To pierce the shadows of the falling night 
And bid remembrance of her gracious self." 

''Ah Eliezer! could I tell it thee, 
So thou shouldst see with vision pure and clear, 
That matchless grace of perfect womanhood! 
'Twas not in charms that fetter and allure 
To cheat the senses with their gaudy arts, — 
Nor yet the pretense of the cultured mind 
That only dazzles with its wealth of words. 
Nay, rather strong in consciousness of power 
To weave the arts of peace. .She moved 
To myriad deeds of glad unselfishness. 
And so revealed the glory of all life. 
So great her art, so good her purpose too. 
The lordly Tammuz felt his heart enthralled 
For honor of her peerless womanhood, 

[53] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

And spake the words his love enraptured heart 
Poured o'er the portals of his parted lips." 

"Isthar listened and was still. 
As grows the light upon the misty vales, 
When morning sunbeams pierce the purple dawn, 
So on her being dawned the secret truth 
Of life 's eternal source. 
In fleeting visions of the happy hour, 
She knew that Tammuz was the Lord of Life, 
And from his hand the gift of being fell, — 
The gift of being, purposeless and cold 
Without the fair enchantment of her love. 
So duty urged to hear the tender plea, 
And service prompted joy of sacrifice. 
Then glad of heart, she placed her hand in his. 
And gave the services of love 
To bless his gifts of Life. 
And lo ! sweet melody of Love and Life 
Swept all the chords of being in the world. ' ' 

" It is not mine to tell the joyous spell 
The bright ones fashioned for our weary hearts, 
Nor mine to paint the splendor of that day 
Their shining fingers spun the threads of light ; 
But all the joys that Life and Love can give 

[54] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Was poured with lavish hand upon our sphere 
What time they spent in unalloyed delight 
Enraptured of each others godlike love. ' ' 

' ' But woe befell when somber Allat came 
From those dim regions of the sacred dead, 
And claimed the Beautiful ! 
With ruthless hand, she smote his happy heart — 
Congealed the currents of his pulsing life 
And drew the gloom of Hades o'er his mind, — 
Snatched the bright spirit from its lovely form 
And bore it to her realm of night and dread 
Where dust and silence reign. ' ' 

''Isthar bewailed her dead nor comfort found 
In deeds of mercy, or the old delights 
Of weaving love-spells for the restless world. 
So much her joy had blended with the will, 
And noble purpose of the Beautiful — 
It seemed, his spirit gone, the fruit of Life 
Withered and failed within her nerveless hand. 
Grief bruised her heart to silence, yet her eyes 
Pierced the gray gloom of Allat 's land of Death ; 
Then well she knew the limpid flow 
Of life 's great river had its secret source 
Beneath the palace of the awful queen. ' ' 

[55] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

*'0h could I win," she cried, ''for Tammuz 
need, 
The cool refreshing waters of yon pool, — 
Pour o'er his heart and brow the azure wave — 
And press the crystal to his palid lips, — 
Joy would revive the silent heart again, 
The mind would wake again to living thought, 
The sleeping spirit move to deeds of light. ' ' 

' ' Then Isthar rose, her mind serene and calm, 
Her spirit strong with purpose and resolve, 
To win the spirit of her well-beloved 
From Allat's dreadful thrall. 
Hasting she sped unto the realms of death ■ — 
Assailed the ramparts with exultant will — 
Struck the high portals with commanding force 
And in imperious tones demanded; ''Now 
Open to me the doors of Allat 's house ! 
Open to me the fountain 'neath the dome 
And give again my well beloved life — 
Else I shall wake the many myriad dead 
And leave Allat bereft. ' ' 

"Such force of love and will had Isthar then, 
Grim Allat trembled at her presence there 
And waived her law that none dare violate, — 

[56] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Her law supreme : 'No living soul 
Shall pass my threshhold o'er, save those 
Whom Death shall lure from out the world, 
And from my bourn no traveler shall return.' '* 

^' ' Yet Isthar must obey the common law. 
Put off her brow the sign of pulsing life 
And lay the sceptre of her office down. 
Intent upon her quest, she quick obeyed. 
Took off her jewels and her robe of white. 
And e 'en the garments of her spirit lay 
At Allat's feet. 

And so she stood before the awful queen, 
A living soul robed in the primal dress 
Great Hea gave when first he bade her live. ' ' 

' ' When AUat saw the beauty of her soul, 
And knew the secret of her mystic power. 
Her jealous rage sought vent in deeds of wrath. 
She e'en devised new forms of pestilence, — 
New pangs of suffering and new vials of hate, — 
Awoke the imps of torment from their sleep 
And placed the power of torture in their hands ; 
Adjured them take the Radiant One away, 
And pour the evil of all wickedness 
Upon her brow, her breast." 

[57] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

"Full sixty times ye shall repeat the deed, 
Until this vaunting spirit comes to sue 
For favors at my hand. 

Too well I know her power in realms of Life, 
But here in Death we will not own her spell. ' ' 

"Then darkness fell o'er all the beauteous 
world. 
And anguish smote the hearts so lately glad. 
Till every being bowed in brooding grief 
For Isthar in her hour of deepest need. 
From truest hearts her love had softly blest, 
A tender sympathy and chant arose. 
Pervading all the gloom of mortal night ; 
So pierced the shades of the immortal dead 
And pressed the brow of Isthar in the strife, — 
As dew drops on the sun exhausted flower. 
Revived her strength and lifted high 
The baffled purpose of her stern resolve. ' ' 

' ' Then Isthar rose, a light upon her brow, 
That smote with blindness all those forms of 

night. 
Before that gaze, grim Allat fell away. 
Striving to shield her splendor dazzled eyes 

[58] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

From light so brilliant, and the mighty power 
Of Love triumphant in its quest for Life. ' ' 

"Straight to the fountain speed the dauntless 
One, — 
"With stainless hands the mystic waters dipped. 
And lo ! the miracle of ages grew ! 
Within those palms the sparkling liquid rose 
A living spring that laughed with pure delight, 
And ran the brim of yon fair chalice o 'er 
To bless the world with rivers sweet and clear. ' ' 

' ' But Tammuz lay within the palace hall 
Inert and still, a ghastly form of dread, 
Whose image made brave Isthar 's heart to fail. 
But those bright waters babbled sweet and low, 
The song of life and all its lovely joys ; 
So taking heart, she hastened to fulfill her rite, 
And poured the healing waters over Tammuz' 
form." 

"Then she beheld the spark of life return, — 
His heart regained its strength of vital force, — 
His eyes grew bright with glad exultant 

thought, — 
Twas then she brought the purple, royal robe 

[59] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Great Hea gave to mark him Lord of Life, 
And clasping it about his stately form, 
Lifted and bore him to the portals dark 
Of Allat's drear abode. 

There, touched by balm of heavens refreshing air, 
Tammuz arose, resumed his sceptred power, 
And pausing, kissed fair Isthar's noble brow 
And breathed a benediction on her love. " 

"Isthar rejoicing, saw her soul's fair garb 
Trampled and soiled upon the pavement there ; 
But scarce her finger tips had touched the hem. 
When all the folds grew lustrous with the light 
Of her great sacrifice, and e'en the jewels 
Of her high degree blazed forth 
The peerless splendor of her matchless soul." 

"So came those bright ones from the land of 
dread. 
From Allat 's kingdom, drear and desolate ; — 
So Life and Love came back to realms of light 
To bless the world with beings sweet content. 
For Isthar's love had triumphed over Death. 



[65] 



PART IV 

Conquests of Faith. 

Who in hope believed against hope, to the 
end that he might become a father of many 
nations, according to that which had been 
spoken, so shall thy seed be. 

Romans. 



A SONG OF FAITH 

The maiden's voice fell mute, the tale was 

done, 
The beauteous lore the Chaldee virgins loved. 
Was here enriched by one whose generous mind 
Saw purest virtue in all thoughts and deeds. 
Good Eliezer wrapped in listening mood 
Discerned the potent beauty of the theme, 
But read, more pleased, the maiden modesty, 
The worth of womanhood, the wealth of heart, 
Expressed in chastity of thought and noble 

speech. 

The night had folded down her purple shades 
Across the golden splendor of the west. 
And Isthar's silver lamp of living light 
Had faded from the sight. 
But rising high, the moon her splendor shed 
In soft effulgence round the grove of palm. 
The pulse of life was calm. Its soothing peace 
To Eliezer 's heart was full of power, — 
The power divine that moves the souls of men 
From truth to truth. 
Flowing serene from yon Eternal One, 
He saw it bind men's customs, thoughts and 

wills 
In one harmonious chorus, pure and clear 

[63] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

The whole creation now exultant sings 
Wheeling in majesty around Jehovah's throne. 

Then slowly spake the steward, and rejoiced 
Rebekah's mind with strains of sweeter song; 
He struck the harp of life and every chord 
"Was vibrant with a new, a fairer charm ; 
He breathed a halo 'round familiar things. 
Till pain and sorrow, hope and blessed peace. 
And all the secret cloisters of the soul 
Were touched with glory, radiant and sublime. 

'* Sweet is thy song, dear maid. 
No greater love hath mortal mind conceived 
Than one should follow to the gates of death 
With sweet affections' ministering balm. 
And by the chords of living sacrifice. 
Draw hence the loved one from the silent sleep." 

Measured and slow the quiet accents fell ; 
So musing, Eleazer scanned the past 
With eager, yet with reminiscent mood, 
Asking his soul the lesson most benign 
That years of toil and careful thought had won 
From out the deep mysterious facts of human 
life. 

[64] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

*'Thy song is good, for truly love abides, 
To bless the social spirit of mankind ; 
It binds in genial joys our frail designs 
Of home, of city and the ponderous schemes 
That makes a nation's power. 
Yet love is not Supreme, nor conquest makes 
Upon the hearts of men. Too much they seek 
The prize of mortal life, its little joys; 
Too much they grasp the pomp of temporal 

power, 
The gaudy trappings that adorn the flesh. 
And all the baubles that a selfish mind 
Can carve from stores of generous mother earth, 
To feed its vain ambition and delight. 
These things are for a day, they pass and fade : 
Nation on nation rises to enjoy 
The fretted carvings of their haughty prime, 
Then pass away to leave in tomes of time 
The little lessons of their vain desires. 
But love that gives its service for the race, — 
That spends its strength in willing servitude 
To bless the suffering and disconsolate — 
A love that pours its soul-life on mankind, — 
A soul-life, white with pure, celestial fire. 
And bearing in its heart the potent force 
To print on minds a new design of life, — 

[651 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Ah, this is yet to be. 

Somewhere, sometime. 
Beyond the vision of our mortal eyes 
Such love shall give its blessing to mankind, — 
Shall break the bonds of human selfishness 
And so redeem the race from sin and death. 

''Jehovah lives. His clear but voiceless Word 
Moves on in mighty grandeur through the maze 
The ages slow unroll. 
The stars maintain their course. 
The world abides ; but in the heart of man are 

truths innate 
That future eons can alone unfold. 
E'en now, in our triumphant day. 
He works a new, a living miracle ; 
And we who lift our eyes to read His truth 
Rejoice to see His presence in His works. 

''Yea, I have seen Him touch a human soul 
And lo ! it grew in trust and purpose 
Strong with power divine. 
That soul, aware of Great Jehovah's will. 
Moves steadfast to the deeds His word com- 
mands, 
And by obedience proves His power to bless 

[66] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

With strength, with peace, with perfect light 

of truth. 
My mind grows clear with vision of his life, — 
His will in yielding to the law revealed, 
Grows flexible and strong. His heart 
To peace inclined, now treasures more 
The voice divine that calls 
To duty. So he lives 
Incarnate faith. 

Even his name the holy signet bears 
And Abraham is called the Friend of God. 

''It has been good to live and know the man; 
To see his soul grow stronger day by day. 
To see his mind transcend the petty plans 
Of scheming monarchs and their lust of power, — 
To see him rise above the lures of sense, — 
To know he sees with faith anointed eyes 
The future glory of the human race. 

"Yes, love shall bloom like some immortal 
rose 
And bless our senses with its sweet perfume. 
But faith must hew the mighty base of stone 
On which to raise the templed soul of man, 
And build the structure of eternal life. 

[67] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

' ' Oh maiden fair, I cannot trace for thee 
The outline of those splendid monoliths, — 
For who can know the inner heart of man, — 
The heaven born soul that thrills the plastic 

clay? 
Like fleeting shadows of the sun-kissed clouds, 
That skim the skies in summer's golden prime 
And shine again in clear Euphrates ' wave, — 
So spirit swept is e'en the life of man. 

''And Abraham ! ah, well it is to lean 
Upon such friendship in this life of stress ! 
Three times I've marked his soul in noble deed 
Proclaim the conquest of his earnest will, 
And yield the passing joys of mortal sense 
To mould a man for all eternity. 

''Once here at Ur he heard the Voice divine 

That called from scenes of happy youth's de- 
light. 

From friendship's ties the fleeting years had 
bound 

With cords of kindly intercourse and peace. 

Yea, clearly came Jehovah 's blest command ; 

'Leave thou thy father's house and journey 
hence 

[68] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Unto a land I shall reveal to thee, ' 

But Abraham would fain have tarried here, 

For men grow strong in pleasant social joys. 

Like stately trees that weave the light and air 

Into the fiber of their rugged stems. 

And so resist the storms that beat and bend, — 

So Abraham had woven Chaldea's lore 

Into the heart-strings of his daily thought 

And found it irksome to obey the call ; 

Here, too, a parent's failing years besought him 

stay, 
For Terah 's flesh cried out with longing deep 
For quiet grave on fair Chaldea's plains. 

' ' But still the call was clear, Jehovah warned 
Against the lure of Utr's deceitful ease. 
Revealed the flattering solace of the gods, — 
And fruitless favor of the priestly craft, — 
The vain ambition for material wealth 
And Elam's thirst for power : 
Not here among the sons of crafty men 
Could he achieve the conquest of the age 
And win his deathless heritage of faith. 

' ' Then he arose enlightened with the truth, 
And laid aside, like garments worn to shreds 

[69] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

His friendships and his high prosperity. 

One sacred trust he lingered to fulfill, — 

His father's wish to sleep 'mid well-loved scenes 

Beside Euphrates' wave, awhile restrained, 

But when at last he paid the filial debt 

His fond affection prompted to be due, 

He left familiar scenes and journeyed hence 

To fashion, yonder in fair Hebron's vale, 

The inner life of faith." 

''Again I marked the conquest of his soul, — 
More potent far its deep significance 
Since vital heart-strings strained beneath the 

test 
Jehovah wrought. 

''The fleeting years had sped. 
And in their wake had left 
A trust serene, a deathless confidence, 
For pledge on pledge the Lord had oft fulfilled. 
Among the treasures of His bounteous gifts, 
Pledges and promises of vanished years, 
None were so precious as the gentle son 
Whose coming blessed and hallowed every dream 
Of love for Sarah and the glimmering hope 
Of nations yet unformed. So Isaac grew 
A boy of tender years, the comely lad 

[70] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Filled fond affection's sweet solicitude, — 
So blessed his parents' gray declining days, 
That life grew fair with love 's mild servitude — 
Its gentle ministrations rendered there. 

''One day my master bade my hands prepare 
The asses for a journey and the wood 
Used in the sacrifice, also the bread 
Needful for pilgrimage. Then bade me come 
With him and Isaac on the rugged way, — 
A three days' journey to Moriah's mount, 
Where worshipers are wont to sacrifice 
Their best beloved to God's eternal care. 

"When far away we saw the barren hill 
Eising in grandeur in the blue-domed sky, 
He bade me stay. Then in his hand 
He took the wavering flame, the knife. 
Sacred alone to paschal sacrifice, 
But laid the wood on Isaac's tender form. 

' ' I marveled much for bleating lamb was none 
To offer on the altar's incense stone, 
Yet questioned not, but Isaac voiced my thought, 
Saying: 'My father, here are fire and cleaved 

wood. 
But where the lamb our hands shall sacrifice? 

[71] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

I saw a light upon the patriarch's brow, 
Whether of joy or grief, I could not tell, 
So transient was the beam. But in 
His voice was confidence and peace, 
As he replied : 

'The Lord, my child, 
Provides the paschal lamb.' 

"Then what befell I had no means to know, 
But Isaac told with many a word of awe. 
The wondrous peace that ruled his father's 

heart 
While climbing up the mountain's rugged slopes 
And even while he strove to yield 
The gift of sacrifice. 

' ' They raised an altar of the virgin stones 
And Abraham spread out the cleaved wood 
And laid the fire amid the fagots there ; 
Then bound his son, his sacred treasure kept 
As testament of sacred covenant. 
And laid him on the stone of offering. 
His hand was raised to slay the paschal lamb 
So truly God's provision, when from the sky 
A voice benignant fell and stayed the stroke : 

[72] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

'^ 'Nay, Abraham,' the tone was low and clear 
'This day thy soul has proven its love to me 
In willingness to serve. Forbear the deed, 
A living sacrifice of perfect service and its per- 
fect faith, 
Is more to me than death of this thy son. 
Behold the lamb ! Close at thy side it bleats. ' ' 

' ' And lo ! the lamb was there, 
Caught in the thorn beside the altar stones. 
So Isaac joined his father in the prayer 
And offered up the lamb the Lord prepared. 

"Again I saw the stature of the soul 
More beautiful with inmost trust in God. 
'Twas on the night he called me to the tent 
To send me on this happy quest for thee. 
He told me all the purpose of his heart. 
And God's approval of the gracious hope 
That sought upon the joy of Isaac's love 
To rest the future of a hardy race. 
He told me one great purpose of his plan, 
And how Jehovah's will had blest his hope 
With covenant of truth. How well he saw 
The future years unroll the glory of a people, 
And the light of worship of the God Most High. 
He told me how on Isaac's life 
And thy most faithful comradeship 

[73] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Must rest fulfillment of the covenant. 

He seemed to know the purpose of thy mind, 

By inner sight beheld thy womanhood, 

Its power to love and choose the eternal good. 

Its hope of life, its subtle strength to mould 

The purposes of thought and hope and deed 

Into the immortal grandeur of a soul. ' ' 

"I cannot tell what visions sweep his mind 
How far the future shines before his eyes. 
But this I know, true faith hath wrought in him 
A living miracle in human life, — 
Not in the mortal form that wastes to dust, 
But in the soul that animates the form ; 
So has he woven God's eternal truth 
Into his spirit's deathless heritage 
That in all time, wherever men shall rise 
To sing Jehovah's praises and adore 
His great creative Word, — there Abraham 
Will live and speak again 
The conquering power of faith." 

The listening group beneath the spreading 
palms. 
Were thrilled with power of moving eloquence 
Whose vital force was fraught with living truth 
And deeds heroic of a human soul. 

[74] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

The story done, the tense and earnest thought 
Found utterance in soft expressive words 
Of Avonder and delight. 
But fair Rebekah mused in silence deep, 
And sought in inmost recess of her mind 
For acquiescence to the truth revealed 
In faith, in deed, in word. 

At last she rose, Avith hasty finger tips 
SAvept light the ivory AA^hiteness of her brow 
As if to lift the film of mortal sense, 
And see Avith inner sight the vision clear, 
Then spake in accents calm : 

"Ah, Eliezer, what is this thou sayest 
Of life, — its purpose in the will of God? 
Thou canst not see the future years unfold 
The hidden glory of the perfect day 
NoAv daAvning on our eyes ? Ah well 
It is to see the glimmering light. 
Pale gloAA'ing on the mountain's purple rim 
And knoAv the day will come. 
So out of human effort groAvs the power 
Of noble purpose. But the vision bright 
Of man's perfection leads to purer life. 
Ah, Avere it Avell to see and to believe 
Unless the Avill to do, achieve the dream 
In character and deed ? 

[75] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

* * No sweeter music ever charmed my ear, 
Than this thy lore of Father Abraham ; 
His faith, his deeds, his covenant with God. 
If on his eyes the future years unroll 
The glory of the nations grown strong 
By careful nurture of Jehovah's Word, — 
If he would fill the world with living truth 
Of God's eternal care, — His Fatherhood, — 
YvHiat more can we than yield our service due. 
To speed the truth our humble hearts enfold? 

''My thanks, Oh Eliezer, for thy speech, 
Its blessed import lifts my mind to light 
Of perfect understanding, and my heart 
Is singing its beatitude to praise 
Our Great Jehovah's Word. 

Now in His peace to rest. 

Good-night, good-night." 



[76] 



PARl^ V 

CONSUMMATION 

And Isaac went out to meditate in the fields 
at eventide ; and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, 
and behold, there were camels coming. 

Genesis. 



A SONG OF FAITH 

A prayer, a benediction when the chant is 
done, 
So breathed the voices of the gathering eve. 
What time the flowerets closed their smiling 

eyes, 
^And folded drooping petals, singing low. 
The psalm of glad thanksgiving and delight 
^or soft caress of mild, declining sun. 
And dewy kisses of the misty breeze. 

Then Isaac knew the message of the hour. 
Then heard the silent call of Nature 's voice 
With heart responsive ; left the sheltering tent 
To tread sequestered paths and seek anew 
The mystic source of all her soothing charm. 
By quiet thought he tuned his harp of life, 
To ring harmonious to the peaceful scene ; 
He saw the glory of the evening sky. 
The trailing beauty, soft in many a curve 
Of valley, plain or distant mountain slope ; 
He marked the blended branch of olive, oak and 

vine, — 
The misty glow of flower-embroidered dells, 
Where drowsy birds their plaintive vespers 

trilled. 
And all his heart rejoiced. 

[79] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

What purer joy hath human soul than this ; 
To stand serene while peaceful day declines, 
The senses charmed with myriad beauteous 

forms, 
The quiet heart unmoved, awaits intent 
To hear the trailing garments of the life 
That calmly moves through all the pulsing 

sphere. 
How good to feel the conscious being thrill 
In unison with that impelling Soul 
That moves triumphant through the universe 
And thus reveals Itself in form, in light, in 

sound. 

Oh ye who bar the lightly swinging door, — 
Who close your will against the gentle voice 
Of inmost soul that pleads in humble prayer 
To share the glory of infinitude — 
How know the priceless treasure ye have 

spumed, — 
The vision bright your darkened eyes assailed? 

No need had Isaac's mind to search the maze 
Of earthly beauty or the realm of thought 
For yon deep mystery of boundless life. 
Ah no ! his inmost soul had dwelt in secret peace 
With the Eternal Truth, Jehovah 's love ; 

[80] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

And now he felt the tide of Spirit surge on 

surge, 
Move through the beauteous world, — 
He felt its mighty billows sway his heart, — 
Its mystic waves beat on the shore of thought, 
Till all his senses thrilled with reverent awe. 
And prayer, that spirit breath of truth revealed 
Flowed unrestrained from pure and stainless 

lips. 

Oh soul made strong with mystic bread of 
life! 
Oh heart serene with balm of heavenly peace ! 
To thee the evening meditation brings surcease 
Of cares that press with weary pain or strife. 

The worship done, a peace more potent far 
Than soothed to rest the summer's golden day, 
On Isaac's heart its benediction prest; 
And while the mists their silvery curtains drew 
Across the distant blues of Jordan's hills. 
The strain of music smote his listening ear, — 
The chime of tinkling bells, the mingled strain 
Of happy laughter and the careless song, 
Of voices low in serious converse blent. 
Then lo ! from out the amethystine shades, 

[8i] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

A stately caravan its course pursued, 
Moving across the dew-enfolded fields 
Toward his bower of quiet solitude. 

Nearer it drew and on his ear there fell, 
The brighter music of barbaric bards, 
Who brightly led the camels on the way 
With clash of cymbal and the chime of bells, 
To mark the cadence of the orient song ; 
And then the beat of many weary feet, — 
Of camels knowing well the journey o'er, 
Hasten to win the longed-for cool retreat. 

The heart's sweet impulse to assure the guest 
A cordial welcome and the cup of cheer, 
Moved Isaac's feet to meet the coming train. 
His questioning glance beheld the trappings gay 
Of festive garb in myriad tint and hue, — 
Beheld the camel drivers, careless of their 

charge 
And maidens smiling on the quiet scene. 

Then quick his gaze was held serene, intent. 
By quiet eyes and fair and placid brow, — 
A face where serious thought was subtle charm 
To hold attention and command respect. 
And seeing, Isaac knew full well 

[82] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

The quiet joy of happy dream fulfilled 
In something more than glad reality, 
For living peace of Great Jehovah's Word 
Diffused Avithin his mind its potent spell 
Of blessing and assurance of the grace 
Of love's beatitude. 

So deep his mood, 
He scarcely knew the camel men 
Had stayed the caravan with stern command 
And waited his behest. Then slow the maiden 
Drew the embroidered wimple o'er her face. 
And he who rode companion at her side, 
Dismounting, came apace to Isaac's feet, — 
Gave salutation in the manner grave 
Of orient servant to his honored lord. 

Then Isaac knew the dear familiar form 
Of Eliezer and the portent true 
Of caravan, of fair and serious maid. 
His quiet grace of gentle courtesy, 
A benediction and a welcome gave 
To faithful friend and steward of his trust, 
And turning tranquil gaze upon the maid, 
Murmured: ''And peace to thee, 
Fair daughter of Chaldea's clime. 
Come thou and thine to Mamre's silver pool, 

[83] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Where cool, refreshing water waits thy need 
To soothe the desert heat, and there 
My father, Abraham, will welcome thee 
With fitting gift and speech." 

At soft command the camels took their way 
Across the golden meadow's dewy road. 
And Isaac walking by the steward's side 
Asked for the story of his favored quest, 
And Eliezer bowing made reply : 

"Thy father's God is good. Jehovah's word 
Be always covenant to thee and thine. 
By Ur 's high wall He heard my earnest prayer. 
And gave me this, the child of Nahor's house. 
The fair Rebekah, for my trustful plea. 
And when within her father Bethuel 's house, 
I told my mission to the gates of Ur, 
She heard rejoicing and in gentle mood 
Pledged fond obedience to the heavenly call, 
And so she comes to bless thy life, thy love. ' ' 

Isaac replying, said : 
''My thanks I give thee, Eliezer, friend, 
For faithful service well and wisely done. 
Thy word is good. Jehovah 's will 
Is ours to cherish and obey." 

[84] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Then to Rebekah : 
''Beloved of Bethuel, Jehovah's peace be thine! 
My dreaming love grows strong 
With sight of thy dear face, and glad my heart 
Sings royal welcome to my mother's tent, 
Where long I learned her lore of woman's love. 
And thou art come by heavenly guardians 

kept, — 
By this I read Jehovah's law of peace; 
His purpose rules our lives. 
And though the waste of desert sands 
Lay wide between the scenes of youthful years. 
We twain are one in hope, in faith, in love. 
And we will weave the fabric of our days 
In fadeless colors of a perfect trust. 

"I came this eve to muse in silent prayer, 
Jehovah's purpose and His will for me ; 
E'en while I questioned came His blessed peace, 
And while it lingered on my inmost soul, 
The caravan thy gentle presence gave, 
And I beheld thy face, calm, beautiful, 
Where purity of thought and truth 
Have left their imprint in serene repose 
And quiet dignity. 

[85] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Then in my heart 
I knew thou wast the maid 
My soul should love for peerless womanhood 
Through all the ages of eternity. 
Jehovah's voice hath spoken. Let it be." 

Rebekah drew the 'broidered veil aside, 
And meeting Isaac 's gaze with quiet eyes, 
Made slow reply: 

''I know not when nor how my musing mind 
Conceived the contour of thy form and face, 
But now I see thee on this brink of time, 
I know the semblance of a constant dream 
Hath grown to full and sweet reality. 
I know that somewhere far beyond our ken 
Thy soul was fashioned for my full delight, — 
My purpose, wish and will attuned to thine. 
If haply, too, thy heart may crave the boon 
Of fond affection and the word of peace, 
I pray it mine to give thee meed of love, — 
To cheer, to bless, to comfort and sustain. 
Jehovah guard and keep thy mother's tent 
A sacred shrine where love and truth divine 
Shall mould the growing image of the soul 
In likeness to Jehovah's word." 

[86] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Slowly the caravan with lingering pace 
Moved toward the tent by Mamre's limpid 

pool, — 
Softly the music of its rhythmic tread, 
Blended with speech so full of deep import 
sThat voiced the purpose of each trusting heart. 
So Isaac and Rebekah came with pledge of love. 
Beneath the spreading oak whose sheltering 

boughs 
Bent down with light caress to bless with shade 
The tent of Abraham. 

Silence within the tent. The shades of even 
Deepened and wove a charm of quietude. 
The faithful Abraham reclined at ease 
Upon a sumptuous couch. 
Musing he watched the fading rose tints 
Pale to gray along the western sky, 
Heard the soft hush of evening fall serene 
About the pool. The soft breeze 
Swayed the leaves of Hebron's oak. 
A drowsy twitter of belated birds, 
Lulled the bright day to rest. 

Murmur of voices, 
Tread of many feet, and soft 
The tinkle of the camel bells, 

[87] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Broke on his musing mood. And lo! by subtle 

sense 
Of intuition, knew, good Eliezer from his quest 

returned. 
Was here at Mamre's pool. 

With haste to welcome home the steward, 
friend, — 
To greet the maiden of the favored quest, — 
The patriarch went forth in joyous mood, 
And by the pool his eager welcome gave. 

"My well-beloved, Jehovah's peace be yours, 
His name be praised for work so nobly done, — 
His word your guide and purpose all the days ; 
The fragrance of your trust be incense sweet. 
To win His favor in each hour of need. 
Oh come, my children, come within the tent. 
Here let me hear the story of thy quest, 
Oh Eliezer, and thy will, dear maid. 
To share our trust divine." 

He drew the tent folds back and led within 
The late come friends, and comfort made 
With many a rude device. 

While Isaac brought the food and cup of cheer 
To speed the passing hour. 

[88] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

Then Abraham, with patriarchal grace, 
Spread out his hands in attitude of prayer, 
Besought Jehovah's blessing and His peace. 

The company served, 
The simple supper done, Abraham spake 
This kind paternal word : 

' ' Right glad of heart, am I this night, 
To see my heart's delight 
Beneath this sheltering tent. 
Good Eliezer, welcome home again, 
And blessings on thy service nobly done. 
And you, my children, how my heart doth sing 
Its SAveet beatitude for presence here 
So favored and so dear. 
Your lives united and your purpose one. 
May these gray tent-folds prove a worthy place 
To foster love and peace, — 
Their shelter be your altar and your shield. 
Here be your altar for the daily prayer, 
Where every noble purpose has its source. 
Where every poor desire its foil and snare ; 
A shelter from the beating storms and stress, 
That marks the converse of our human kind. 
And wearies heart and mind. 
Here Sarah wrought the magic of her art, — 

[89] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

The gentle grace of trusting womanhood, 

And wove the wondrous web of human love 

'Round Isaac 's life and mine. 

Here have we pondered many an earnest truth, 

Seen many a vision of the future years, 

And wrought the purpose of Jehovah's will 

With many a word of praise. 

''Oh children, keep Jehovah's guiding word 
A sacred treasure. Let no idle mood 
Destroy the purpose of His high decree. 
Delay His sacred plan. 

How can I tell you what His clear voice speaks 
In hours of meditation to my soul ? 
But this believe, no idle dreaming mine ; 
Nay, this eternal vision must endure 
Throughout the endless years that come and go 
While men shall walk the earth ; 
And it must gleam beside all fields, all streams 
Of earnest thought and noble duty done. 
And everywhere shall grow enduring forms 
Of human character and righteous states 
To bless the life of man. ' ' 

''How can I sing of His eternal love. 
How speak the purpose of His wise decrees, 
How vast His power divine ? 

[90] 



A SONG OF FAITH 

How tell you what His sacred truth enfolds, 

What devious ways He leads the life of man ? 

But somewhere in the future 's golden prime, 

He shall reveal His purpose all complete 

In one serene and perfect Son of Man 

And Son of God. 

Whom to believe shall be eternal Life. 

In that far time the world shall e'en rejoice 

Because you lived and ever sacred kept 

The perfect Law of Faith." 



O'l 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



018 349 356^ 5 ( 



